Described in detail by the Roman traveller Pausanias, the ancient city and harbour of Salamis left behind significant remnants.

Archaeologists agree that it was probably founded after the voluntary submission of Salamis to the control of Athens, and the abandonment of the Mycenaean site. In the Classical era, after final occupation by the Athenians, the city developed rapidly, its port becoming an important marine and commercial centre. Excavations in 1918 revealed walls, port installations and other major buildings.